The best camping in Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA

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Discover the thrill of off-road adventure at Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA.  

The best camping in Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA

Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

1. Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%
(28)
5mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Diamond Acres is a quiet, secluded camp in the Kern River Valley just minutes from Lake Isabella, the mighty Kern River, and Southern Sierras! We offer glamping sites (tent or trailer) with hot showers and flushing toilets! Come enjoy the solitude and stars. Our camp overlooks miles of rolling hills with no houses in view! Skip the crowded campgrounds and glamp comfortably while only being 5 minutes from Lake Isabella! Take a short walk to the top of the property and enjoy some of the best sunsets you've ever seen! We are close to the Kern River, OHV trails, hot springs, hiking, kayaking, fishing, boating, paragliding, and so much more!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Double Triangle Ranch

2. Double Triangle Ranch

98%
(58)
5.8mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Once settled by Tubatulabel and Shoshoni tribes, this area is rich with reminders of their habitation. Grinding rocks near Tipi camp are one of those. When gold was discovered in the Kern River Valley, most of the native tribes were displaced but their decendents here in the KRV keep the history alive with language studies and cultural events.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$41
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

3. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(45)
8mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Kernville Ranch

4. Kernville Ranch

100%
(20)
11mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 5 sites
Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

5. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

99%
(567)
14mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, and a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink and shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private. Stargazer and the Boulders have their own fire pit, and there's a communal fire pit too. We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 9 campsites. Each campsite will accommodate a medium size tent (10’x10’ max), except for The Boulders which will accommodate more. No Pets, No Smoking ADULTS ONLY. Spirit Walk is a quiet meditative place. It is not a conducive environment for young children. Thank you for understanding. Lake Isabella, the Kern River and historic Kernville are just 5 minutes down the road. All Hipcamp proceeds go directly back into the land in the way of forest maintenance, a tree planting program and improvements to the facilities.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
The Squattage in the Sequoia National Forest!

6. The Squattage in the Sequoia National Forest!

97%
(77)
26mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
It’s a newly constructed little cottage that a Sasquatch would call home, that’s why we call it the Squattage! Our guests love the history of our Village and surrounding areas, the wildlife, serenity, and friendly folks, we hope you do too! Learn more about this land: Beautiful new A-frame, high-end fit and finish! Features include a sleeping loft! The downstairs has a daybed with a trundle, a sitting area, an indoor potty and a nice breakfast bar! It’s so relaxing, romantic, and just as fabulous as can be! The hot outdoor shower has a beautiful view of the trees and sky! The large front porch is perfect for relaxing or planning the day's adventure! All solar powered. There’s a propane fire pit to cook on or enjoy, propane is available for $35 or you can bring your own. Peaceful Village, beautiful views, park-like setting! Lots of wildlife to see! Beds have high-end bedding, nicer than the hotels! Towels and washcloths are provided for the shower. We even have a few games for you to play to add to your stay at the Squattage! HEY FOLKS! The weather is beautiful, come on up! Spoil yourself and spend some time in our neck of the woods, you deserve it! BOOK NOW BEFORE SOMEONE BEATS YOU TO IT!! Hope to see you soon! PS, we now have Star Link Wi-Fi!! Come on up and be a part of our community! Our Village has begun having craft shows on the first Saturday of every month, lots of great things for purchase! We attend and sell many beautiful items including exotic custom rings, don’t miss out! Items will be available for you to purchase after you check in👍
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
$150
 / night
Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

7. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

97%
(30)
41mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Okihi is a unique sanctuary where habitat restoration meets outdoor adventure. Nestled in a diverse landscape, we focus on healing the land through hands-on conservation while offering a space to connect with nature, camp, and learn. This is not your average campground, so i make sure to look over the rules. They will be enforced to keep a tranquil vibe. Restore and Explore We’re committed to revitalizing native habitats—our land is a living example of ecological renewal. Wander scenic trails, enjoy wildlife, and witness the power of restoration in action. Sustainable Farming and Livestock Our animals play a key role in regeneration. Horses, sheep, goats, turkeys, and chickens help manage invasive weeds and maintain healthy ecosystems. We compost all their manure, turning waste into valuable resources for soil health. Camping and Community Camp under the stars, explore nature, and join us for seasonal events and workshops focused on sustainability, conservation, and community. Whether you're here to camp, hike, or volunteer, Okihi is a place where nature and people come together for a common cause. Okihi is more than a destination—it's a living example of land restoration, sustainable living, and the power of community. Come explore, learn, and make a difference! Okihi is approximately 15 minutes east of Downtown Bakersfield. 20 minutes away from the 99 hwy or 178 hwy. Whichever way you are traveling, we are a great stopover point. Sites are spread around on the east side of the property facing the river for beautiful river views while you sip coffee from your site. There are a multitude of recreation opportunities to enjoy. On site there is hiking, places to practice yoga or meditate, kayaking, paddle boarding. We also have a hammock veranda that is fully shaded and a great place to relax along the river. Miles of biking paths run on the road right by where we are situated and there is a nearby river rafting company if you want the white water experience. Most of our campers are road tripping, getting away from LA, or are looking for a stopover on their way to/from Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree, etc. We are in a desert climate – cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Portable heaters or fans with misting options are available for rent.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Happy Gray Coyote

8. Happy Gray Coyote

97%
(48)
43mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites
Property has been in my family for 60 years. Hope you enjoy the desert getaway!Learn more about this land:5 acres of open desert. Great views of surrounding mountains. Middle of nowhere, a great spot to get away from it all.. star gaze, and just chill out. Boon dock off the grid. NO Facilities but town has everything you could need and just far enough away... If you plan on having a campfire please obtain a burn permit on line. Its free and a great fire safety precaution. Obviously NO FIREWORKS.   
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

9. Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%
(233)
43mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Private Sanctuary on the Tule River

10. Private Sanctuary on the Tule River

94%
(42)
43mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 8 sites
Located at the foothills of the Sequoia National Monument, this private property is stewarded by our Indigenous elder Xico with permission from the Yukot peoples (Tule River Tribe), the original stewards of Springville. The land is bordered by the Tule River, accessible by a short walk. It offers palpable energy and breathtaking stargazing and is perfect for ceremonial experiences. Amenities include an outdoor shower and porta-potties within walking distance. Please leave no trace and pack out all garbage and plastics. Avoid synthetic fragrances or chemical toiletries, as everything returns to the land. Treat this extraordinary and sacred space carefully to keep it beautiful for everyone.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
A Unique Mountain Retreat

11. A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%
(297)
44mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$45
 / night
Antelope Canyon Ranch

12. Antelope Canyon Ranch

98%
(61)
46mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
The Ranch has many varied sites to explore from oak woodlands to pine covered woods. The ownership of the land has been held since 1883 by the Summit Lime Company and was until the 1930's the site of several lime quarries one of which was used to supply material for the Owens valley to Los Angeles aquaduct. Current utilization is for recreation, private hunting club, timber production, and cattle grazing. The campground was built in 1967 to provide a location for church, non-profit, and youth groups to enjoy a private, and safe location for outdoor recreation activities. Camping is restricted to family and group activities. The campground has 17 sites a comfort station, water hook-ups, fire ring, and 4X8 foot stone BAR-B-Que. In order to provide a private experience no two groups are scheduled at the same time. An ideal group size is 15 to 150 persons.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$600
 / night
Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

13. Sierra Ranch - Cabins & Tents

98%
(609)
46mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Swimming in North Fork Tule River, miles of hiking trails on ranch. River Ridge Ranch goes from 1,000' elev. to 3,000' elevation. Hike right on the ranch. We are between Sequoia National Park (about an hour) and the Giant Sequoia National Monument (16 miles to groves up Hwy 190 and no entrance fee). Choose from individual tent sites, group tent sites, tiny cabins. the 5-acre Compound or the Entire Ranch. We occasionally host small, thoughtful, low impact weddings. Please inquire. There are 33 giant sequoia groves in our Southern Region of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, some easily driven to, and some remote. Our ranch is a nature preserve and an education demonstration site, teaching sustainable and regenerative land use practices. River Ridge Institute, our non-profit, hosts a variety of events for the public. Please note: you are expected to leave the ranch and kitchen area as you found it, i.e., dishes washed thoroughly and dried and put away, recycling separated from trash, food scraps in compost buckets, sticky marshmallow removed from forks and surfaces (ick!). Thank you. Enjoy: The Kitchen has a 3-burner cooktop, large fridge, microwave, full dishes and utensils and pots and pans with a big washing area in the back. Propane barbecue grill.. There's a River Barn to use as a remote space and Turtle Cove for swimming. Saturday morning Farmer's Market in downtown at 9 AM - Noon. Ancestral land of the Foothill Yokuts tribe. Homesteaded in 1859, owned by the Negus family from 1909-2000. Barbara and I bought it to save it from subdivision and it's now protected by a Conservation Easement and acts as a community center for the arts, music, poetry, gatherings and outdoor education. We're both biologists, so, just ask us. Please see the Rules and Safety section to review our Waiver of Liability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Isabella Camping

14. Isabella Camping

100%
(1)
10mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
NEW PROPERTY! More photos are coming soon!! Lake view with easy access, Tent & Camp; RV camping , electric & water hook ups , laundry mat , restrooms and cold showers. Property is open access off the highway, so there will be slight noise. There are 8 sites in the front with a lake view, and 4 in the back that don't. Total of 12 campsites. There are full hook-ups with water, electric (30 amp), and sewer. The sites are dirt/gravel but not rough terrain. The sites are completely level, so you can park and go. The lake is just on the other side of the highway. You can access the lake by walking, it's right across the street. Less than an 1/8th of a mile is drive in access to the lake. You are welcome to haul in your boat to the property as well, happy to give you boat parking.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$51
 / night
The Kern Lodge

15. The Kern Lodge

11mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 19 sites
Location: we are located in Kernville, just a 5 to 8-minute walk from the Kern River, next door to the Kern River Brewing Company, across from the Sierra Gateway Market, and up the street from Pizza Barn and the Kern River Fly Shop. We are 1 hour from the Trail of 100 Giants in the Sequoia National Park (the Trail is CLOSED from November – Memorial Day in May). Our rooms vary between Mountain and Pool Views. Most stores and restaurants are either next door, down the street, or over the bridge (5 to 8 minutes walk). Weather: we are located in a high desert country. Even though we are in the mountains, the Kern River Valley is usually warmer than you expect (except during winter months). You can check the weekly forecast for Kernville here. Amenities: Internet Wi-Fi is available in the hotel rooms and is free of charge. Parking-Free private parking is available on site (reservation is not needed). Pets-Pets are not allowed. Pool-Outdoor Pool (seasonal) – FREE Entertainment & Family Services-Game Room Coin-Operated Foosball Table – $1.00 BBQ Facilities – FREE Family Friendly-Family Rooms General Non-smoking Rooms Air Conditioning – FREE Designated Smoking Area Honeymoon Suite Heating Grounds Library Skiing Skiing (Off-site) Activities Golf Course (within 2 miles) Hiking (Off-site) – FREE Fishing (Off-site) – FREE Canoeing (Off-site) Cycling (Off-site) Windsurfing (Off-site) Foosball – Coin Operated $1.00 Cleaning Services Daily Housekeeping – FREE
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$92
 / night
Underworld Farms

16. Underworld Farms

86%
(43)
11mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as our son's 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or drive your vehicle and pitch a tent on one of our tent friendly sports. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. The campground is VERY barebones and rural. Critters, bugs, and sometimes fellow Hipcampers can be sparce or prevalent pretty randomly. Because Underworld Farms is a working ranch, you will probably hear livestock noises like horses neighing, sheep and goats calling, and our protector dogs barking from time to time. We encourage you to walk over to the horses and goats and meet them. They especially like when you bring them carrots or apple pieces. The ranch has a double outhouse with a hand washing station sandwiched in between, it is rustic and bare bones. We check it to see if it has paper products, soap, water, and plenty of room in the trash bins. During the hotter months, the "daddy longleg" spiders enjoy infiltrating the outhouses and seem to spin new webs overnight. But they and their webs are harmless and easy to brush off. We ask for your assistance if there is something missing, or the trash needs taking out, or if the spiders have taken over again by getting ahold of us through the Hipcamp App and letting us know. With all that being said, there is an ambient beauty here that is unbelievable and memorable. This beauty and draw is so powerful that it causes the many people who come visit to make arrangements to live in our little valley. There is much to do in and around our valley that you couldn't do it all in a lifetime. We hope that you come and stay at the ranch while enjoying our valley. May you have a great time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Closest Vacay Cabin to the Lake

17. Closest Vacay Cabin to the Lake

100%
(2)
11mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
Discover serene "Little Isabella," a 550 sq. ft. cabin with a unique layout just moments from the lake – a 3-min drive or a leisurely 15-min walk. If you ever wanted to stay in a tiny house this is very similar. Enjoy the excellent location on a paved road very close to fishing and boat docks. A cozy loft with a charming sleep space for four or more. Play crib available upon request. We offer a petite basic kitchen, complete with a fridge, stove, microwave, and scenic sink overlooking the lake. A natural well provides chemical-free water for refreshing showers that rejuvenate your skin and hair. The cabin rests on 2.5 acres of natural splendor with trees and a seasonal creek.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$120
 / night
Cozy cabin by the lake

18. Cozy cabin by the lake

100%
(1)
12mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
Walking distance to rafting. Relax with the whole family at this peaceful and cozy place to stay. Perfect for a large family or multiple small families staying together. Fenced in backyard. Lots of parking and space for a small rv/ trailer. Come play in the snow up the mountain during winter, enjoy the lake all year round. Explore the town, find a few treasures at the antique store, hike the Trail of 100 Giants, soak in Miracle Hot Springs, and fish or catch crayfish in the river/lake.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$350
 / night
Split Mountain Retreat

19. Split Mountain Retreat

94%
(8)
12mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Split Mountain Retreat! Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Enjoy amazing lake and mountain views from our Mountain Top Studio or our large, level RV campsite. Unobstructed 360* views, complete privacy, acres of land to roam and full RV hookups. There is a studio apartment and two RV locations, each with 50amp and 30amp; 120V outlets and septic connections. A covered area with picnic tables and a sitting area with Adirondack chairs. 28 acre property surrounded by BLM land. Hiking abounds. Multiple sitting areas for meditation or enjoying the spectacular view. No close neighbors. Complete privacy, peace and quiet. No Smoking. No Parties. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature at our private mountain top retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$84
 / night
Spectacular A-Frame. Epic views!!

20. Spectacular A-Frame. Epic views!!

88%
(4)
13mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
Welcome to Wild Elk Sleepover! This charming A-Frame cabin is nestled on a serene hillside between Lake Isabella, Alta Sierra and Kernville. Fill your lungs with the fresh Autumn air. This valley is the California mountains' best kept secret. - Stunning mountain & lake views - Spacious deck - Full kitchen - Retro gaming system in bedroom TV - Cozy fire pit - Comfy mattresses - Mini split AC in every room - Dog Friendly! Perfect base for all your adventures. Unwind and rejuvenate! Cheers!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$126
 / night

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The best camping in Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA guide

Overview

About

Embark on an off-road adventure at Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area. With over 26,000 acres of rugged Mojave Desert terrain, this park invites ATV, motorcycle, ROV, and 4x4 enthusiasts to explore its vast landscapes. Venture across a checkerboard of trails, where the thrill of the ride is matched only by the scenic vistas. Prepare for a self-contained experience, as the park offers pit toilets but no water or hook-ups for camping.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA is from October to April, when cooler temperatures and occasional rains create perfect conditions for off-highway vehicle recreation. Summer brings intense heat, making it less favorable for visitors. Winter months may see snowfall, adding a unique challenge to the terrain.

Know before you go

  • Prepare for self-sufficient camping; no water or hook-ups are available on-site.
  • Check for fire closure orders before planning your visit to ensure access to all areas.
  • OHV recreation is best enjoyed from October to April for optimal weather conditions.
  • Remember, the park is open 24/7, but always call ahead for the latest updates on conditions.
  • For emergencies, dial 911, and for park information, call (661) 248-7008.

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